Cataract surgery
Advanced cataract surgery using modern techniques and proven lens implants.
Precision treatment
for lasting results
Cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure performed at The Eye Center. A cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare, difficulty reading, and challenges with daily activities.
Cataract surgery involves removing the clouded natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial intraocular lens. This procedure is carefully planned based on your eye measurements, visual needs, and overall eye health to achieve the best possible outcome.
Where Cataract Surgery Is Performed
Cataract surgery is performed at The Eye Center in our on-site ambulatory surgical suite, which is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and instrumentation designed specifically for ophthalmic procedures. This dedicated surgical environment allows our team to focus exclusively on eye care in a comfortable, controlled setting.
Our specialty-trained nurses, surgical technicians, and physicians work together to provide a streamlined experience focused on patient safety, comfort, and efficiency.
What to Expect During Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is most often performed without injections, stitches, or eye patches. In many cases, numbing eye drops are used to ensure comfort during the procedure. The surgery itself is typically brief, often lasting between 10 and 30 minutes.
Throughout the procedure, your vital signs, including heart rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, are continuously monitored. Our team specializes in eye surgery, they are also highly trained in critical care and prepared to respond to any situation that may arise during your care.
The Eye Center is committed to using advanced intraocular lens implants that have been proven to be safe and effective. Premium intraocular lenses may also be discussed to address astigmatism and reduce the effects of presbyopia, potentially decreasing the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery.
Cataracts
Cataracts are characterized by clouding of the natural lens, resulting in blurred or dim vision, glare, halos, and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. This progressive lens clouding can impact daily activities such as reading and driving, cataract surgery can restore clearer vision by removing the cloudy lens.
Cataracts
Cataracts are characterized by clouding of the natural lens, resulting in blurred or dim vision, glare, halos, and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. This progressive lens clouding can impact daily activities such as reading and driving, cataract surgery can restore clearer vision by removing the cloudy lens.
Recovery and next steps
Your physician will provide specific activity restrictions based on your particular condition. Some patients can resume regular activities the following day, while others may need to take it easy for a few days. We will give you clear written instructions before you leave our office.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your healing and ensure the treatment achieved the desired result. These visits allow us to check your eye pressure, assess vision changes, and confirm vision has fully recovered. Most patients notice improvement in their symptoms within days to weeks.
If you experience unexpected pain, sudden vision changes, or increased redness after your procedure, contact us immediately. We maintain same-day access for urgent concerns to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
Our team remains available to answer any questions about your recovery. Whether you need clarification on your restrictions, have concerns about your healing, or simply want reassurance, we are here to support you through the process.
Patient voices
What patients are saying about their care.
"I came in with realistic expectations of a doctors office visit. All my expectations were exceeded. Office staff was polite, personable, and professional. Dr Ehlers remind of the doctors before insurance companies ruined the profession. I would recommend this office to all in need."
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Peter Maximus
Cataract surgery patient
"Dr. Rick Ehlers and his staff are absolutely amazing. They are conscientious and caring. They got me in quickly and gave me a comprehensive and very professional exam. Dr Ehlers explained everything so that I could understand and he answered all of my questions. I really appreciate the care I received and I give his office my highest recommendation."
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Brian Fow
Eye exam patient
"After having two Retina surgeries in Seattle I was very nervous about having cataract surgery here in town. Dr. Ehlers and his staff were amazing. From the front desk to the staff assisting with the surgery i give them many kudos for their professionalism and kindness shown to me. A special thank you to Debbie and Jackie who totally calmed my nerves. Thank you! :)"
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Rose Meyer
Retina surgery patient
"When I first walked in I was very nervous about having cataract surgery. It was literally a piece of cake. I was well cared for from beginning till the end. Dr. Ehlers and his whole staff are very caring and professional and I thank them for giving me perfect vision again and thanks to Yakima Eye Center I don't have to wear glasses anymore except for reading glasses which is not a big deal."
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Al Lopez
Cataract surgery patient
"Dr Stapleton was absolutely fantastic; professional, friendly, and perform my cataract surgery with the upmost of care and compassion. The staff were all caring and explained everything that was going to happen before, during and after the surgery. The Yakima Valley is fortunate to have this eye care facility."
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Chuck Cogburn
Cataract surgery patient
"My experience at this eye center was stellar! I was seen in a timely manner, treated with utmost efficiency and professionalism. Staff were competent and friendly in performing all the vision tests. Dr. Ehlers then provided me with clear information and options for my consideration. Just exactly what I came for!"
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Marquita Pattur
Cataract surgery patient
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On-site dedicated ophthalmic surgery suite
3403 Powerhouse Rd, Yakima WA 98902